Clothes moths
Tineola bisselliella
Description
The clothes moth (Tineola bisselliella) is a small golden moth with a wingspan of around 9–16 mm (typically 12–14 mm). The larvae damage fabrics by feeding on keratin-rich animal fibres such as wool, silk, fur and feathers.
Adults avoid light and shelter in wardrobes, drawers and dark, undisturbed places. Larvae can damage clothing, carpets and valuable fabrics, leaving holes and silken residues.
Key characteristics
~9–16 mm (typically 12–14 mm); body ~6–7 mm
Golden
Wool, silk, fur, feathers (keratin)
Damage fabrics, leave holes
Avoid light, hide in wardrobes
Risks and spread
The clothes moth damages valuable garments and fabrics: the problem is mainly material and financial.
- Damage to garments — Larvae make holes in and damage wool, silk, fur and carpets.
- Valuable fabrics — Also attacks valuable garments and materials kept in long-term storage.
- Hidden infestation — Develops in dark, rarely checked areas of wardrobes.
Prevention
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1
Store clean garments in sealed covers
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2
Regularly air wardrobes and move stored fabrics
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3
Regularly vacuum drawers, wardrobes and carpets
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4
Check garments put away at the end of the season
Our intervention
TIsistemo locates hotspots, clears the infestation and applies targeted treatments to wardrobes and rooms.
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Inspection Finding larvae, holes and residues in wardrobes and fabrics.
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Clearance Thorough cleaning and treatment of garments and spaces.
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Targeted treatment Specific treatments in hiding places and pheromone traps where useful.
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Monitoring Regular checks to confirm the result.
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